Cliff Swallow (Petrochelidon pyrrhonota)

These nongame, insectivorous birds inhabit cliffs of desert and submontane ecological associations. Like other swallows, they are migratory and normally arrive in our area around April and remain until October, when they begin their flight back to their wintering grounds in South America.

Colonial nesting occurs on cliffs, buildings, and bridges from May until July. Both sexes will incubate the eggs for 15 days. The young fledge after another 21-24 days. Occasionally, two broods are raised. Their population trend is unknown.

In the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, look for their distinctive mud nests built on cliff-sides.